Norfolk residents are getting active on National Fitness Day

15th Sep 2021

Physical activity is a vital part of a healthy lifestyle and can even help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. Voluntary sector organisations and local authorities across Norfolk are therefore happy to help celebrate National Fitness Day on Wednesday 22nd September.

National Fitness Day will see activity options being enjoyed by participants of all ages, such as walking football, yoga, Pilates, treadmill challenges, dance-offs, mass walks, virtual workouts and many more.

Active Norfolk, Better Together Norfolk, CANConnect and Lily, who all work to support people experiencing loneliness or social isolation, have teamed up to encourage people to get outside with a friend, family member, neighbour or colleague and make the most of the fantastic natural resources which Norfolk has to offer, such as the trails, coastline, cycle paths, and parks – or even just walk down their own road and chat to their neighbours.

Physical activity and sport make valuable contributions to the health and wellbeing of people in communities. It’s estimated that around 40,000 people in Norfolk experience loneliness or social isolation – and it’s important that those who might benefit most from a more active lifestyle are not overlooked – particularly those who may be socially isolated.

A huge range of healthy activities are available, not just on National Fitness Day, but throughout the year.

Councillor Sam Sandell, Cabinet Member for People and Communities at the Borough Council of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk said “taking part in an activity with others can really help to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. There are lots of activities to take part in and support is available for those who need it.”

A dedicated website is loaded with ideas and inspiration for how to get active now and in the future, including short training courses for anyone wanting to organise guided walks in their locality, advice to help disabled people get active, handy ideas for getting active at work, and heritage walks to explore Norfolk’s rich history.

For support with feelings of loneliness and social isolation, Better Together Norfolk and CANConnect can be contacted on 0300 303 3920. Lily, which covers West Norfolk, can be contacted on 01553 616200.